What is the Best Neuropathy Treatment?

What is the Best Neuropathy Treatment?

Did you know that neuropathic pain does not respond to ‘normal’ pain medications? Thankfully, there are a number of neuropathy treatment options for individuals dealing with this type of pain. And it’s encouraging to know that sometimes simple lifestyle adjustments can make a big impact.

What is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy occurs when your peripheral nerves have been damaged. Nerves are constantly sending out signals to all parts of your body, but when those nerves are damaged, it can cause weakness, pain, and numbness in your extremities. Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is classified by how they function. Autonomic nerves control primarily involuntary activities of your body. Motor nerves control movement. Sensory nerves relay information from skin and muscles along the spine to the brain where the information is processed to feel pain and other sensations.

One of the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes, but it can also be caused by trauma, vitamin deficiencies, hypothyroidism, or autoimmune conditions. Neuropathy can also be chemo-induced or hereditary.

Each individual’s experience with PN will vary depending on their type and classification of neuropathy. The effects can be gradual or come on suddenly, but generally include:

• Sensation- If PN has affected the sensory nerves, patients may experience numbness and tingling, usually starting in the hands and/or feet that spreads up the limbs, loss of sensation, or even an increased sensitivity to touch.
• Motor Function- This can affect movement patterns, reflexes, and cause weakness in affected areas, atrophy, muscle spasms.
• Autonomic Function- Autonomic nerves control involuntary and semi-voluntary functions including bladder functions, sweating, and heart rate. Patients may feel dizzy with a change of position, nausea, excessive sweating, or inability to control bladder functions.

How Can Physical Therapy Help with Treating Neuropathy

The Neuropathy Association estimates that over 20 million Americans (1 in 15 people) experience some form of neuropathy.

Thankfully, physical therapy can play a vital role to help those suffering with neuropathy pain. It’s important to note that because the severity and symptoms can vary widely, treatment will also vary. Neuropathy treatment options may include:

• Nerve Gliding- Nerve gliding, also known as neural gliding, is a stretching technique that moves the body through a specific range of motion. These exercises can help to manage symptoms of PN and promote healing of the compressed and irritated nerves. This treatment option tends to work best when combined with other treatments.
• Balance Exercises- Since PN of the feet can affect balance and coordination, your therapist may take you through specific exercises to help you get back to normal and prevent the risk of falling.
• Moderate-Intensity Exercise- In most cases, exercise can help to combat pain and improve your overall health. To help improve strength, increase blood flow, and enhance overall physical function, your physical therapist may recommend certain aerobic and strengthening exercises.
• At-Home Management- It’s important to understand what you can do to prevent further complications, reduce pain and find alternative ways to perform daily tasks. Your therapist will work with you to create an at-home plan based on your individual needs.

Get Pinched Nerve Treatment and the Recovery You Need with Twin Boro

If you or a loved one are experiencing any symptoms related to peripheral or ulnar neuropathy, get the treatment you need to improve your quality of life. Like all injuries, there is not a one-size-fits-all approach. At Twin Boro, a physical therapist will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that helps to address your unique needs and goals.

Call1-732-444-3578 to schedule your no-obligation appointment at one of our 23 convenient New Jersey clinics.

Twin Boro Physical Therapy: Voted Readers’ Choice Best of New Jersey

Voted Readers’ Choice Best of New Jersey, Twin Boro has provided NJ residents with high-quality physical therapy and rehab for close to 40 years! It’s our award-winning approach, proven results and reputation that sets us apart. By incorporating the One2Four program into each patient’s program, the latest and most reliable scientific research and techniques are incorporated into effective evidence-based practice. We deliver only the highest standard of care with the unique One2Four approach.

It’s no surprise that Twin Boro Physical Therapy has also been voted the best physical therapy practice in New Jersey by the readers of mycentraljersey.com.